2005 Holden Commodore SV6 3.6 V6 from Australia and New Zealand

Summary:

More fun for sales reps, a taxi to enthusiasts

Faults:

No faults have occured while I have been driving this vehicle.

General Comments:

I do not own this vehicle, but have spent a fair bit of time behind the wheel of one, so I feel qualified to describe how I feel about the driving experience even if I can't comment on things like long term reliability and dealer service.

The SV6 is a good looking vehicle from any angle. It is roomy inside and the build quality seems to be a vast improvement over previous Commodores I have sampled. Many don't like the interior colour scheme, but I find it quite attractive. Thankfully the five-spoke wheels are easier to wash than the previous model's!

The vehicle is very easy to drive and delivers strong performance throughout the rev range, however it doesn't have the punch I was hoping for from 190kW. Power delivery while smooth, seems dulled by the transmission and gear changes are slurred (I must admit that I am used to a manual transmission). The paddle shifts behind the wheel can be fun, if relatively pointless.

Handling is competent and firm compared to less sporting models, but I felt isolated from the road - more like a passenger with a steering wheel than a true driver. Again this could be because I am used to more charismatic vehicles. The seating position, while comfortable, gives the impression of being 'on' the car rather than 'in' it, effectively disconnecting the driver from the mechanical happenings beneath.

All interior controls fall easily to hand and I was surprised that the CD player sounded reasonable. Overall a good, but not outstanding vehicle. Something to give sales reps a touch more fun, but still a taxi for enthusiasts.